Page 43 - Issue 33

on Products, and then click on Driveshafts, you will be instructions on how to cut weld yolks off, balancing
pointed to a set of different forms like the below that new shafts, different types of u-joints (inside vs.
will help educate you when going in to order a custom outside locking), information on cup dimensions, etc.
driveshaft at any driveshaft shop. This will save both When measuring a driveshaft, it’s important that
you and the shop time. Plus, you’ll be a little more all the weight of the vehicle is on said vehicle at the
educated about what you’re actually building and later time of measurement. This will give the correct “axle
driving down the road. steer” of the vehicle at ride height (the wheelbase will
The image below is the style of drive shaft that was shrink when the vehicle is lowered to the ground and
built for this year’s Tour Rat: additional weight is added and the rear end will roll
forward with the additional weight).
Steve says, “When measuring the outside lock of
a u-joint, you want to know the outside measurement
of the cups and the cup dimensions. The cross (of the
u-joint) and the cup dimensions are needed pieces of
information when ordering your drive shaft. Also very
helpful when going to the parts store if you’re wanting
to put, say, a Chevrolet shaft in a Ford truck... you can
give the dimensions and get a special, aftermarket,
universal part to make existing parts you may have,
work.”
These special, aftermarket, universal parts are also
known as “combination joints” and/or “bastard joints.”
Also, on this same website, you will fi nd other These are a cheaper alternative than an entire new
helpful information: such as ways to measure drive shaft and we know how our readers are all about
u-joint series, (an explanation of what that means), options like this.

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